Smooth legs 101: How to get the closest shave

Jessica Padykula is a freelance writer and editor in Toronto, Canada covering a wide range of topics for several online lifestyle publications. She is a regular contributor for SheKnows, covering travel, style, relationships, health and...

Silky, smooth legs

Shaving your legs is a fine art that takes precision and skill. It’s not just about a few quick swipes of the blade -- you’ll miss a spot for sure, and most likely, you'll cut yourself. We’ve put together a guide to help you get a close shave for irresistibly smooth legs.

Choose the right blade.

If you have fine hair, you should be able to get away with a three- to four-blade razor. If your hair is more coarse, opt for a product with five blades so you can get as close as possible to the skin and not leave any hair behind. If you have sensitive skin, get a razor that has a built-in lubricant strip for a smoother shave with less irritation.

Shave in the shower.

Standing in the shower for a few minutes will soften your skin, making for a smoother, closer shave. Plus, you'll be multi-tasking: shampoo, condition, wash up and shave!

Use a shaving cream.

Shaving with a tiny bit of soap lather is tempting, but that will dry out your skin and leave you with small cuts. To get a smoother, closer shave, use a shaving cream or mousse. These products act as a lubricant, allowing the razor to move with more precision. Using a shaving cream also hydrates the skin.

Shave against the grain.

This may seem obvious, but a helpful reminder never hurts: Always shave in the opposite direction of hair growth. This helps you cut hair as close to the skin as possible and get a nice, close shave.

Don't use a dull blade.

Check your blade before you get in the shower. If it's dull -- and if you've used it more than three times, it is -- replace the blade or get a new razor out of the package. A dull razor won't result in a very close shave, and you could cut yourself.

Moisturize.

After you shave, slather on some moisturizer. Your legs will look smoother for longer if you hydrate as soon as you get out of the shower.

More about hair removal

We've all looked down during the middle of a meeting or a dinner date with a new hottie to realize that we've missed a spot shaving. If it seems like, even when you try your hardest, your legs are never as silky as you want them to be you might need a little intervention. Check your blade; make sure it's not old; check that you're shaving in right direction and opt to try shaving in the shower instead of posting up on your bathroom sink. Still need help? Look into other hair removal methods in order to achieve silky, smooth legs.